I Ignored the Protagonists, Now They're After Me

Ch 15

note: Does this author's readers like the new cover?

Upon reaching the library, Fredrick charged inside like a mad bull, yelling around for the Third Prince. Allen just stood off to the side, sighing at the reckless behavior.

If this were like before, I would've been alongside Fredrick in screaming, disturbing the tranquil atmosphere of the place.

Instead, I watched Fredrick run in between the bookshelves. Acting like I was searching for the Third Prince as well, I half-heartedly wandered after Fredrick.

In reality, I was just bored. After detaching from Allen, I stopped following Fredrick to explore on my own. My feet went aimlessly around the library, looking at thousands of book spines that just seem unappealing to me.

"Where's the little prince hiding? I'll say my graces and then I'll make up an excuse to go home," I quietly grumbled, peeking in between the shelves.

When my eyes fell upon a head of black hair, my heart jumped out of my chest.

I stood frozen, gaze trained on the pale and petite hands that reached up and pulled down a book from the row in front of me.

Huh? Is that—?

She turned and walked quickly to the left, heading for an area near the windows.

I was stunned for a few seconds before I unconsciously followed.

No way... Isn't she supposed to show up later?

What is she doing in the Royal Library?

She continued walking until she arrived to an open area with sunlight filtering through the window. There were two desks; one empty with multiple pages and books, while the other one was similar but occupied.

The person who occupied the other desk was the Third Prince, who snoozed lightly in his chair. His face was propped up by his clenched fist, entirely relaxed by the warmth of the afternoon.

"What the hell..." I said under my breath, openly stepping out from the book shelves.

The girl turned, her pale face flushed with surprise and onyx eyes appearing to be startled. Her eyebrows rose up, only to be hidden by her bangs. Even her small mouth was slightly opened.

If I didn't feel extremely uneasy at the moment, I would've laughed at her comical expression.

"Who... who are you?" The girl yelped, her long eyelashes blinking rapidly.

I didn't reply, only staring past her to watch the Third Prince. In my mind, chaos ensued.

Why is she here?

Her of all people?

I took a step backwards, my hand flying up to press against my throbbing temples.

Did they meet this early before? Even in my previous life?

That wouldn't make sense! She should still be a commoner's 'daughter.'  How would she even be in the palace with that kind of class?

"Hello?" She prompted me, causing me to look up at her.

I didn't react immediately, only giving her an empty stare. Then I took a breath and refocused my thoughts.

I pursed my lips, narrowing my eyes. "Who am I? The better question is; who are you? What are you doing here? What is your family name? What—"

What relationship do you have with the Third Prince?

I paused before I finished, taking a deep breath. The cold anger I had when I watched the first play through of my life resurfaced.

She stared at me, bewildered at my rapidly fired questions. Her eyebrows knitted together as she opened her mouth to speak again.

I was focused on her, expecting to hear answers. However, I was disappointed as I heard footsteps running up from behind me.

"Maerie, there you are! Did you find Noah yet?" Fredrick exclaimed, taking heavy breaths as Allen waltzed up from behind.

My face didn't want to curve into a smile, but I managed to show one as I answered, "Yes. The Third Prince is right over there, sleeping."

"I was just resting my eyes."

I stiffened at his words, a huge feeling of hostility rising in me as I glanced over.

He raised his head and stretched, opening his eyes lazily as he surveyed the situation before him. When his azure eyes met mine, I felt my eyes twitch before I looked away.

Was he really sleeping? Or was he just faking it?

"Wakey wakey, sleepy head! Did you get to hear about the new country? C'mon, tell me if you did!" Fredrick barked, rushing past me and hooking his arm around the Third Prince's neck.

My shoulders tensed as Fredrick pushed past, displeasure threatening to creep its way into my face.

The Third Prince simply gave him a look before replying, "I didn't get to hear about it. I was having a study session with Lady Warren."

Fredrick tilted his head, light confusion settling in his gaze.

"Lady Warren?" asked Fredrick.

The Third Prince gestured to the girl in front of me. Almost immediately, Lady Warren did a slight bow and placed her hand on her chest.

"Good evening," she said with a smile, "I'm Nielle Warren, daughter of Duke Warren."